Fall closet
makeoverWhat
to keep, what to toss - and the key pieces to add now

By JORDAN
DECHAMBRE
Photography by Dan Bishop

September 2013

Bright
blue is a standout color choice this season in both clothing and
accessories. Make it pop by pairing it with black.

Itís that time
of year again. The month where you look at your summer clothing and
wonder what you can possibly still wear into fall ó and open your
dreaded spare closet to see what trends you can reintroduce from the
year before. But the task of organizing your closet for fall doesnít
have to be daunting. The key is to identify which pieces to keep,
which to donate and what you need to purchase to create the perfect,
well-rounded fall 2013 wardrobe. And weíve done the work for you!

Whatís In

Bright Blue,
Winter White and Gray

While 2012 saw a
return to rich tones like oxblood, burgundy and fiery red, this season
itís all about the cool tones of blue, gray and winter white.
Vibrant blues are found on a variety of statement-making pieces this
season, with gray and white acting as the new neutrals. Men can go
bold with a blue velvet jacket or subtle with pops of the color in
accessories. And the gray suit will be a staple of fall and winter
menswear. The great news? All three colors are wonderful on all skin
tones.

Embellishment
and Fur

Many of you
probably have a closet full of "bells and whistles" garments
after last year began an ushering in of opulence. This season
continues the glamorous statement with embellishments everywhere ó
especially on accessories like footwear and statement necklaces. And
you canít go wrong with fur in all of its luxe forms, from coats and
neckwear to details on dresses and shoes.

This
look from designer Jason Wuís Fall 2013 runway presentation in
New York walks the line of tough and feminine by pairing black
and white with chic textures of fur and leather.

Color Blocking
and Bold Pattern

These trends
have only gained momentum the past few years and will not be going
anywhere soon. Color blocking, with its form-flattering optical
illusion, is a favorite of women of all shapes and sizes. Bold
patterns are hot this season for men and women, with ethnic
inspirations leading the way.

Everything
Leather

Itís beyond
sexy ó and it was all over the runways for Fall 2013. Leather is the
ultimate fabric for both men and women this season, from dresses to
jackets, skirts, pants and everything in between. If real leather is
out of your price range, consider vegan, which mimics the supple
nature without the expense. For a fresh take, try leather for day in
black, winter white or taupe.

Fall
fashion isnít for shrinking violets ó so go bold with a
major print. Whether mixing with a contrasting print or wearing
with a neutral, you will be on your way to pattern perfection.

High Boots and
Patterned Tights

Over-the-knee
and knee-height boots just might edge the akle boot for the
"it" footwear of the season. (But donít fret ankle book
fans, the hipster faze isnít moving to the "out list"
anytime soon.) Pair high boots with patterned tights for shorter
hemlines, or even a knee-high knit legging for a funky edge. Patterned
tights are replacing opaque black for special occasion and daywear ó
and are a great way to add flare to a little black (or gray) dress
this season.

Ditch
the basic summer sandals and embrace fallís top footwear:
boosts. The look is hot with contrasting colors and
show-stopping adornments.

Whatís Out

Burgundy: The
hottest color of 2012, this year red hues are replaced by vibrant
blues.

Military:
Influences will still be popping up here and there, but overall a
return to glamour is on the horizon.

Jumpsuits: Still
strong in the summer months, but fading out for fall.

Platform Heels:
Replaced by pointy-toe and stacked heels this season.

Contrasting or
Adorned Collars: Being phased out like secondhand news.

Red Tartan: The
"cabin" casual of 2012 is now fresh in rich neutrals and
ethnic-inspired prints.